Orchestra History
The Allentown Symphony Orchestra (ASO) stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and innovation, enriching the Lehigh Valley with its diverse and dynamic programming. Each season, the ASO presents more than 20 concerts, spanning classical masterworks, pops performances, educational initiatives, and family-friendly programs. Under the visionary leadership of Music Director & Conductor Diane Wittry—now celebrating her 30th season with the orchestra—the ASO continues to captivate audiences with performances that blend passion, precision, and creativity.
The orchestra’s repertoire showcases a deep respect for the great composers of the past while embracing the works of contemporary voices. The ASO has premiered newly commissioned works, championing music that reflects the ever-evolving landscape of orchestral composition. This balance of tradition and innovation ensures that each concert is both familiar and fresh, appealing to long-time classical music lovers and new audiences alike.
World-class soloists regularly grace the ASO stage, further elevating the concert experience. The orchestra has collaborated with internationally renowned artists such as violinist Midori, pianists Emanuel Ax and Garrick Ohlsson, clarinetist Richard Stoltzman, soprano Angela Meade, and pianist Peter Serkin. The ASO has also welcomed acclaimed jazz and Broadway performers, including trumpeter Byron Stripling, saxophonist Branford Marsalis, and vocalist Christiane Noll, showcasing its versatility and broad appeal.
The ASO’s musicians are highly skilled professionals, many of whom perform with major orchestras in New York, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. Their collective artistry and dedication contribute to the orchestra’s reputation for excellence, making each performance a truly memorable experience.
Beyond the concert hall, the ASO is deeply committed to music education and community engagement. Diane Wittry, known for her innovative programming, incorporates multimedia elements such as video, dance, and visual storytelling into performances, transforming concerts into immersive artistic experiences. She is also a passionate advocate for music education, fostering opportunities for aspiring musicians of all ages. The two previous Allentown Symphony Orchestra Music Directors were Donald Voorhees, the distinguished conductor of the studio orchestra for NBC’s Emmy award-winning The Bell Telephone Hour, and William Smith, Assistant Conductor to the Philadelphia Orchestra under Eugene Ormandy.
The ASO’s educational initiatives include outreach programs, workshops, and partnerships with local schools. One of its standout programs is an El Sistema-inspired initiative that provides music education for at-risk youth, supported by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the League of American Orchestras. The orchestra also hosts the biennial National Schadt String Competition, attracting top young string players from around the world and solidifying its role as a champion of emerging talent.
Now entering its 75th season, the Allentown Symphony remains steadfast in its mission to inspire and enrich the community through music. With a commitment to artistic excellence, innovative programming, and meaningful educational outreach, the ASO continues to honor the legacy of classical music while shaping the future of the orchestral world. Audiences can look forward to another season of breathtaking performances, where timeless masterworks and contemporary compositions come together in a celebration of music’s enduring power.